New experiences to discover along the Great Ocean Road

New experiences to discover along the Great Ocean Road

There is always something new to discover along the Great Ocean Road, making it almost impossible to squeeze everything into one road trip.

And with a host of new and reopened experiences around Port Campbell and Princetown, there’s even more reason to make this spectacular stretch of the Great Ocean Road your next destination.

1. Jewel in the crown – Keerray Woorroong Visitor Centre

The jewel in the Great Ocean Road crown is now even more impressive.

The Twelve Apostles are one of Australia’s most recognisable natural sights and an absolute must-visit on any Great Ocean Road trip. Now, the experience has been enhanced with the opening of the world-class Keerray Woorroong Visitor Centre.

Explore the Visitor Centre, discover the region’s cultural, geological and maritime shipwreck history, wander through the gardens and head to the rooftop observation deck. Grab a souvenir or some refreshments before heading out to see the highlight – the Twelve Apostles themselves.

You’ll need to pre-book before you visit, and it’s worth allowing extra time to explore everything the new centre has to offer.

2. Take your breath away - Poombeeyt Koontapool lookout

One of the best parts of a Great Ocean Road trip is stopping at the scenic lookouts along the way – and there’s one you may not have discovered yet: the Loch Ard Gorge Blowhole.

Called Poombeeyt Koontapool, meaning ‘Breath of the Whale’, the lookout gives you a front-row view of the blowhole. Stand there and you’ll see – and hear – why it earned its name, as the sound and spray are amplified to create a spectacular experience.

3. Get closer to Loch Ard Gorge

Standing on the cliffs of Loch Ard Gorge and looking out over the dramatic ocean views is a memorable Great Ocean Road experience.

Currently undergoing works for safety, the stairs down to the beautiful beach are planned to reopen by the end of October, giving you the chance to get closer to this spectacular gorge.

Take a moment to enjoy the beach, towering cliffs and powerful coastal scenery that make Loch Ard Gorge such an iconic stop.

4. From coast to countryside – Poorpa Yanyeen Meerreeng Trail

The Great Ocean Road is home to some famous walks, but the Poorpa Yanyeen Meerreeng Trail offers a new way to experience the region, with its ever-changing landscapes.

Weave your way through tall forests, rolling farmland and wetlands between the coastal village of Port Campbell and the foodie hub of Timboon.

Keep your eyes open for koalas and caramel-coloured Jersey cows, and make time for a well-earned ice cream or other local treats when you reach Timboon.

5. Worth a pitstop at Princetown General Store

If you’re staying in Princetown or driving through on your way to the Twelve Apostles, take a pitstop at the re-imagined Princetown General Store, Café and Bar.

Grab a coffee or lunch, settle in for a cheese platter, or pick up some local homewares and produce to take with you. You can even enjoy a craft beer by the fire or sit outside and take in the views.

Stay close to the Twelve Apostles – Port Campbell & Princetown

With so much to discover around Port Campbell and Princetown, staying nearby means you can take your time exploring.

Our Port Campbell and Princetown parks are both less than 15 minutes’ drive from the Keerray Woorroong Visitor Centre, making them an ideal base for exploring this spectacular part of the Great Ocean Road.

With so much to discover, stay nearby and take your time exploring Port Campbell and Princetown on your next Great Ocean Road trip.